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Why a Juvenile Court?

Unlike adult criminal courts which are criminal in nature, the juvenile courts are civil courts. The reason for this difference is because juvenile court, rather than simply punishing kids, also exists to protect the community while rehabilitating young people charged with breaking the law.

So, just how different is juvenile court from adult court?

Many hearings are closed to the public in order to protect the youth's privacy. For example, special care is taken to shield the child from publicity.

Juveniles do not have the right to request jury trials

Juveniles cannot post bail to leave detention.

Intake and probation officers who handle juveniles are court employees under the judicial branch.